Aunt Chole'S Goulash
A hearty, flavorful goulash featuring ground beef, noodles, beans, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with a savory, slightly spicy taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Saute chopped onions and green peppers in 1 tablespoon of oil until tender.
- Add ground beef and brown thoroughly.
- Drain excess fat and liquid from the meat mixture.
- Add drained kidney beans to the meat and vegetable mixture.
- Mix in cooked noodles, tomato sauce, salsa, and grated cheese.
- Simmer uncovered for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If the mixture appears dry, add catsup to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier option. If you're out of kidney beans, black beans work well too. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder. This dish is versatile and can be customized with leftover vegetables from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Chole's Goulash with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mom's Swiss Steak for a hearty dinner spread. For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This dish also works great for potlucks or game day gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the goulash in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot. Adding a splash of broth can help restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Chole'S Goulash contains roughly 614 calories, with 25g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2358mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Yes, this goulash can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as instructed.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don’t have tomato sauce on hand, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You can also blend fresh tomatoes to create your own sauce. For a tangy twist, adding a bit of barbecue sauce can work well too, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of Aunt Chole's Goulash, replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).